Showing posts with label pet friendly senior living. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pet friendly senior living. Show all posts

Sunday, February 21, 2021

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Rio Rancho

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If you are looking for senior living in Rio Rancho, NM, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho.  For seniors who wish to maintain their independence but require assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), our 51 assisted living suites are equipped with all of the modern conveniences and safety features.  Available in a variety of well-designed floor plans, suites have wall-to-wall carpeting, high ceilings, lots of windows, ceiling lights, and mini-blinds. 

In assisted living, we offer various levels of support with the ADLs (we have 5 levels in all), and your care plan is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with you and your family. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte.  However, regardless of your level of care, all assisted living residents have access to around-the-clock Care Managers to ensure your safety as they compassionately meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.   

If you are someone who finds that preparing meals has become too difficult due to your health or just not something you enjoy any more, you will be delighted to know we offer three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef.  All of our delicious meals are served in our beautiful dining room, restaurant-style, and created largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients to tempt the most particular taste buds.  During the coronavirus outbreak, however, changes have been made in dining protocols to protect both residents and team members. We are happy to report that COVID-19 vaccinations began at MorningStar communities last month.

We believe our care to be different from that of other senior living communities because of the type of individuals who make up our team.  When we set out to hire a new staff member, we look for virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness as we believe these are more important than education or experience.  Moreover, many of our “Great Hearts” come to us for a job as they love the idea of working for a company with core values that include Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness! 

Visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to delivering service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.    

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.   

Monday, June 15, 2020

Our Goal is to Improve Quality of Life for Residents

Mark Boisclair Photography, Inc.
Rather than diminish a senior’s life, assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Fountain Hills help to improve quality of life for residents in a variety of ways.  Along with providing the daily care services residents need to maintain their independence, we provide on-going support to ensure their safety, comfort and continued personal growth.  For our residents’ families, they get peace of mind knowing their loved one is being well-cared for. 

Another benefit of MorningStar’s assisted living is the healthy dining that allows residents to self-manage a variety of dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian or low fat.  Additionally, our medication care management services see to it that residents’ medications are ordered, delivered and dispensed in a meticulous, timely fashion.  Services also include light housekeeping, laundry, transportation and more. 

Moreover, as the CDC reports that each year 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, residents at MorningStar of Fountain Hills feel comforted knowing that help is just the push of a button away as all suites are equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System.  In addition, all bathrooms are handicap-accessible and equipped with grab bars.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Fountain Hills offers loving memory care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Even now, we are safely accepting new residents and following all of the guidelines, and in some cases exceeding them, set forth by the CDC, the American Senior Housing Association and the Federal government to ensure the health and well-being of both residents and team members.  Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Saturday, June 13, 2020

Elder Fraud is All Too Common

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According to the U.S. News & World Report, every year there are 5 million cases of elder fraud in the U.S., resulting in as much as $27.4 billion in losses.  Additionally, these crimes are often hard for law enforcement to prosecute because in many cases victims are too embarrassed to report the crimes.  The FBI says con artists also know that seniors do not make good witnesses even if they do report the crime due to the effects of age on their memory and the length of time it takes to bring a case to justice.    

Experts explain there are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to fraudulent schemes starting with the fact they tend to be very trusting.  Our elderly population was typically raised to be polite, to believe people are basically good, and have a hard time saying “no.”  These are the traits con artists exploit.  Lonely seniors can easily be preyed upon as they are willing to stay on the phone and engage in conversation with a stranger. 

A recent scheme that targeted a large group of seniors was a robocall that informed people they needed to return the call as there was a security issue with their social security number.  When the person called back, they were asked for their full name, address and S.S. number, and told their SS# had been compromised and they would be receiving a new one.   Authorities warn that if criminals obtain someone’s full name and SS#, it allows them to do all kinds of damage to the victim including trying to collect their benefits.   

Another scam is romance fraud, which involves a person being approached by the scammer through dating sites or other social media.  A relationship ensues through online contact but never face-to-face.  After a level of trust is established, the person is asked to send small amounts of money for alleged emergencies to test their willingness and gullibility.  Finally as the scam plays out, the person may give the con artist large amounts of money, or even be used to receive money or goods purchased with stolen credit cards or to transport drugs.      

The FBI warns that there are many fraudulent schemes to be aware of including telemarketing scams, Medicare scams, tax fraud, etc.  They say, “If you are age 60 or older—and especially if you are an older woman living alone—you may be a special target of people who sell bogus products and services by telephone.”  Remember to never give out personal or financial information over the phone or online and do not send money.    

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Fountain Hills, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Sources: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/how-to-prevent-senior-fraud
fbi.gov/scams-and-safety/common-fraud-schemes/seniors

Saturday, June 6, 2020

Father’s Day is June 21st

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Especially in these unusual times when many of us will be unable to visit an elderly loved one, we want to make sure our parents or grandparents know how special they are to us.  With Father’s Day just around the corner, let dad or grandpa know that while they may be out of sight, they are not out of mind. 

So what is a good gift that lets him know he is not forgotten?  As you know dad best, ask yourself if he’s a guy who loves practical gifts, tech toys or something on the humorous side?  I know many dads may not buy one themselves but would love a plush new bathrobe; so why not personalize it with a monogram?  If he is more of a t-shirt kind of guy, order him a personalized shirt.  A popular one has handprints with the names of all the grandchildren and a message calling him out as “Hands Down Best Grandpa,” or how about one that says “Great Dads Make Great Grandpas?”

If dad gets chilly and loves to fish, how about getting him a cozy throw decorating with fish bearing the names of his grandkids.  Another idea is an indoor gardening kit for the dad who loves to grow things.  If granddad is a gamer at heart, how about getting him a lap-sized Nintendo Switch.  A recent study showed in addition to fun, 3D-platform games can help improve cognitive health.  Don’t forget the gift of music or audio books targeted to his interests, and if he doesn’t already own a set, consider noise cancelling headphones for the ultimate listening experience.  If dad still gets around, a step tracking device is a fun way to keep him moving.

While the MorningStar senior living communities are temporarily closed to non-essential visitors, we are still open to the love that is pouring in for our residents.  At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we are still accepting assisted living and memory care residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols.    Please visit our website and take a virtual tour of our beautiful community.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Fountain Hills, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Sunday, May 31, 2020

Memory Care at MorningStar of Happy Valley

MorningStar Assisted Living - Love Lives Right Here
Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Happy Valley feels it is our calling, and our privilege, to provide loving, compassionate memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  With 27 memory care suites, we are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  Also, our Reflections Neighborhood is a secure environment, designed to allow residents the independence to move freely and safely about in their expansive surroundings. 

In fact, every aspect of our memory care is tailored to serve the needs of our most tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.  Once your loved one decides to join the MorningStar community, we meet with your family to learn as much as we can about their personal preferences, medical history and background in order to create an individualized care plan.  Every resident receives 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participates in daily activities and scheduled outings and events.

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our program is another reflection of our Radiance culture and provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security and holistic solutions to challenging behaviors. 

Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our memory care as well as the many resort-style amenities and services we provide to all residents.  We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community. 

Saturday, May 30, 2020

Tips to Prevent a Fall

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We have all heard stories or may have had an older relative take a fall that lead to serious injuries, hospitalization, or in the worst case, a fatality.  In fact, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the fatal fall rate for people 65 years and older jumped 31 percent from 2007 to 2016, making falls the leading cause of injury-related death among people in this age group.  Falls are so common in the elderly that every 11 seconds an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury.

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) says that many falls are preventable and publishes a one-page guide called “Take Control of Your Health: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall.”  Their first tip is to find a balance and exercise class that is specifically designed to help older adults build strength and improve their balance and flexibility.  

NCOA also recommends talking to your doctor about your fall threat.  Ask if any medications you are taking have side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, or other issues that could increase your risk for fall.  Moreover, be sure to share any recent falls you may have had with your healthcare provider as well as your family. 

Fall prevention includes having your vision and hearing tested annually.  If you need stronger glasses, get them and be sure to wear them.  The next step is to do a survey of your home both inside and out to ensure you do not have unsafe areas that increase the likelihood of a fall.  Search the Internet for a checklist of things to look for in your home to improve safety.  The NCOA suggests enlisting the aid of your family to help you keep your home safe for everyone.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our senior living community is designed to accommodate our residents’ limitations.  All of our spacious private suites come with wall-to-wall carpeting, fully handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  We also provide a 24/7 care staff and a full-time licensed nurse.  In addition, residents are offered plenty of opportunities to get moving in our various exercise classes.

Please see our website for more information on our community as well as our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to ensure the health of both residents and team members at this difficult time.

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional senior living community. 

Source: ncoa.org/wp-content/uploads/NCOA-Falls-Free-Infographic-680pixels-0917.pdf

MorningStar of Rio Rancho is Safely Accepting New Residents

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MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s goal is to offer the best senior living in Rio Rancho NM, and we want area families to know we are safely accepting new assisted living and memory care residents.   After a thorough screening new residents are moved directly into their private suite, remaining there for a 14-day quarantine.  Team members entering the resident’s room wear full personal protection equipment during that time. In the entire community, to fight back against the coronavirus outbreak, we have set up protocols that meet, or in some cases even exceed, CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of our residents, their families, and team members. 

As a loving son, daughter, or relative of a vulnerable senior, we want you to know that MorningStar of Rio Rancho is working every day to ensure the wellbeing of our residents.  This includes providing nutritional meals and keeping residents hydrated as well as access to 24/7 healthcare and basic and protective supplies.  Our services also include ordering, delivering, and dispensing residents’ physician prescribed medications.  

Another thing MorningStar of Rio Rancho offers to your mom or dad is loving, social connections.  Based on the MorningStar name, our mission, and our ministry, we have a team of extraordinary individuals who know the value of building meaningful relationships with our residents.  Just take a look at our Twice the Story video series that showcase the tender relationships between residents and team members throughout our MorningStar communities.  These friendships testify to the fact that we need to lean upon and lean into each other—that each might receive a blessing, that each might be served, and that each might come away changed.

Our community offers a choice of 51 well-appointed, private assisted living suites in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 26 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  Visit our website for more information or contact us for answers to any questions.  

MorningStar of Rio Rancho proudly provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.     

Thursday, May 28, 2020

As You Age, a Nutrient-Rich Diet is More Important than Ever

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As people age, many find their appetites have diminished or they suffer from physical or medical conditions that make eating more difficult.  This is why the nutritional value found in the foods they do consume is important, and even today, many seniors have an “inadequate intake of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, folic acid, calcium, and niacin.”  

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advise that people over the age of 50 follow the USDA food recommendations, which should help keep older adults feeling more vital, and thus healthier.  They also point out the earlier you start eating a nutrient-rich diet, the more effective it will be later down the road.  Recommendations include a daily diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy.  It also includes eating foods with healthy fats such as olives, nuts, and avocados.

Along with all of the other amenities and care services we provide, MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Rio Rancho is proud to offer our residents daily meals that are chocked full of the freshest ingredients.  We get much of our produce from home-grown or local high-quality producers. 

Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch, and take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions.  We offer a range of choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat that allows our residents to self-manage.  MorningStar’s food service is overseen by our own Executive Chef, who welcomes resident feedback and often tailors our menus per their suggestions. 

If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Rio Rancho’s MorningStar of Rio Rancho may be your answer.  We are still accepting assisted living and memory care residents during this difficult time of the coronavirus outbreak, confident in our protective protocols.  Please see our website for more information about our community and a message from the CEO detailing our coronavirus response.

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Rio Rancho has to offer.     

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/seniors-nutritional-needs/

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Finding Happiness in Uncertain Times

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As many of us know, cooperating and caring for others are traits that make us happy, and an expert hopes the coronavirus pandemic will encourage people to practice these qualities even more so across the globe.  The co-director of the Wellbeing programming at the LSE’s Centre for Economic Performance, Prof Richard Layard explains that “To get through this we’re going to have to develop a much higher level of social responsibility. Some people are going to have to stay in quarantine, and others are going to have to support them to do that. My hope is that it will encourage a move from an atomized society to a much more caring one.”

Thus we need to remember that it is not “us against them” but rather it is all of us against this virus, and that we are in this together.  Moreover, social scientists say that it is the feeling of powerlessness that makes us unhappy, and when we take control, especially in times such as these, it helps us to cope. 

Vanessa King, lead psychologist for Action for Happiness, the UK partner organization to the World Happiness Report, gives us some tips for finding happiness.  She says we should all be conscientious about how much news we consume each day.  While it is okay to update ourselves with the situation at hand, it does not help to obsess.  Instead make sure to stay in touch with people including your family and friends as well as someone you care about that may not have a good social network.
When we concern ourselves with the welfare of others, it helps us to feel good. Remember even when we practice social distancing, we can still be friendly and smile at others.  You will feel better inside as you spread a little cheer.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community offers 61 bright suites for assisted living and 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community and the steps we are taking to ensure the safety of our incredible residents.          

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional senior living community. 

Source:theguardian.com/society/2020/mar/20/happiness-is-contagious-too-caring-for-each-other-makes-us-feel-better-experts

Monday, May 25, 2020

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s “Radiance” Program

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At MorningStar, we attribute our growth and success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership.  We feel extremely blessed to have a team of individuals working for us who are guided by their hearts and feel privileged to serve seniors.  They are the kind of people that do the right thing even when no one is looking and willingly go the extra mile to help our residents. 

MorningStar’s care is guided through “Radiance,” our proprietary program, which celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place, like a beam of light.  It forms the framework for how our service is delivered – with warmth, sincerity and depth!  Additionally, our Radiance program provides a tangible and purposeful way to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.

Once a team member is hired, they are trained in Radiance. and it is reiterated and strengthened each day during our daily “Huddle.”   We feel Radiance is lived out in a variety of ways throughout our community, and helps us to create an atmosphere of love, compassion and care as well as service professionalism.

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers well-designed private suites for assisted living, available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  We are still accepting residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols.  After a thorough screening new residents are moved directly into their private suite, remaining there for a 14-day quarantine.  Team members entering the resident’s room wear full personal protection equipment during that time. Please see our website for more information about our community and a message from the CEO detailing our coronavirus response.

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community. 

Friday, May 15, 2020

MorningStar of Fountain Hills was Designed for Your Comfort

Mark Boisclair Photography, Inc.
Designed from the ground up to meet the needs of the most discerning senior, MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills’ goal is to be one of the best senior living communities in the area.  We have lots of warm, inviting common areas both inside and out and the amenities and services to ensure residents feel right at home.
 
If you are someone who finds that preparing meals has become too difficult due to your health or just not something you enjoy any more, you will be delighted to know we offer three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef.  All of our delicious meals are served in our charming dining room, restaurant-style, and created largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients to tempt the most particular taste buds.  We even offer a private dining room for intimate dinners.    

Also, our Bistro offers a relaxing place for residents as well as their guests to gather and enjoy a beverage or a light snack.  Other beautifully-appointed, comfy gathering places include our interior patio, second floor veranda, and living room.  Our fireside patio and porches give residents the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. 

Other onsite amenities include our own chapel/theatre, a fitness center, a convenient salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures, and much more.  In addition a monthly calendar filled with meaningful wellness programs and activities will allow you to stay as busy as you like. 
While our array of amenities and services are vast, we haven’t even mentioned our devoted and loving team who are the type of individuals who feel privileged to serve seniors.  Please see our website for more information including our new protocols in the fight against COVID-19.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities in the area.

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

Finding the Best Walker

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Many older adults, especially those in assisted living communities, are no longer as steady on their feet as they used to be.  This puts them in danger of a fall, which can have many serious repercussions on a seniors’ health.  If you are considering getting a walker to help you move more safely around, you need to know something about them. 

For starters since there are several kinds of walkers, you should consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to assist you on finding the most suitable one.  They will make sure it is your size as well as the right type.  To determine size, you should be able to stand between the rails, and the width of the walker should be level with the insides of your wrists. A professional will also teach you how to use the walker and provide tips for normal activities such as sitting down while using a walker.  This is done by backing up until you feel the seat of the chair behind you.  Now bend forward at your hip and reach behind with one hand to grab the armrest.  Do the same with your other hand as you carefully lower yourself onto the center of the chair.       

Common types of walkers include a basic walker that has four legs with rubber tips on each one.  To use, a person must pick up the walker as they take a step.   A wheeled walker can have two fixed wheels on the front that do not swivel side to side or have rubber tips on the front legs and small wheels on the back.  These walkers allow people to walk more naturally as they do not need to be picked up with each step.  A three-wheel walker has one wheel in front and two in back and offers the advantage of being lighter and easier to move around in smaller spaces. 

Rollators are four-wheeled walkers and can be equipped with a seat for a basket.  These walkers are equipped with hand brakes and are ideal for people who do not need to apply a lot of weight to the walker.  However, they are not recommended for people with dementia as they may forget to use the hand brake. 

Are you in the process of looking at senior living communities in the Fountain Hills/Scottsdale, AZ area for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you visit MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ website for more information about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities in the area.

Sunday, May 10, 2020

Looking for a Gift for Mom or Dad in Assisted Living?

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It can be difficult to find the right Mother’s Day or Father’s Day gift for a parent living in an assisted living community.  We recognize that they have had a lifetime of gifts, and as they are no longer running their own household, they not only do not need as much but have a limited amount of space.

One suggestion is to give them a blanket or throw as seniors often suffer from the cold.  However if you want to personalize your gift, there are several companies that will create a cozy throw using one of your family photos.  A talking photo album also lets you create memories through family pictures and when it has recorded voices of the grandkids, it is really special.

Another idea is to give them a lap desk that allows them to easily read a book or to write a letter from the comfort of their chair.  You could add a couple of adult coloring books illustrated with things they enjoy or places they have been along with some colored pencils and markers to complete your gift. 

A personalized gift basket can be filled with all kinds of things such as their favorite soaps, lotions and perfumes or colognes.  You can also fill a basket with special treats including chocolates, cookies and a small plug-in teapot and tea bags, or do one up with slippers, grippy socks, and a couple of pairs of fashionable compression socks.

Furthermore, tablets and iPads make good gifts as their touch-screen technology and large print options make them easy for seniors to use.  If your parent is not tech savvy, set up the tablet before you give it to them with their email address, facebook page and other personal items.  It may be fun to pre-load a few games that you think they would enjoy and add some photos of the family.  Include with the gift the offer to be their “tech support” if they have any problems.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Friday, May 8, 2020

Our Vision is to Create a True Home

Mark Boisclair Photography, Inc.
At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, our goal is to be one of the area’s best senior living communities, and the care, comfort and wellbeing of our residents is our greatest priority.  This is why we have a group of team members who feel privileged to serve seniors and are the kind of people who come to work each day with a smile on their face.  Our dedicated team is the heartbeat of our community and strives to deliver service that represents the mission and philosophy of MorningStar Senior Living, which includes honoring God and valuing seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.

Our vision is to create a true home for our residents, and we consider both our residents and team members to be part of the MorningStar of Fountain Hills family.  To provide caregivers and other team members with the tools they need to bring their best to the community, our staff receives training in “Radiance,” our proprietary brand of Service Excellence. 

Radiance embodies the ways we advance our mission and deliver our service - with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose.  Furthermore, it is reiterated each day during our daily Huddle so as to create a culture that is not only defined by what we do but by the kind of people who bring it all to life – our team members. 

Our community offers beautiful suites for assisted living in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Additionally, our Reflections Neighborhood has secure memory care suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Both inside and out, you will find a community complete with warm and inviting common areas to sit and enjoy a chat with friends or to enjoy the weather from our fireside patio and porches. 

In addition, as a resident of MorningStar, you will also discover we have a monthly calendar of meaningful wellness programs as well as creative and social activities to choose to participate in.  Please see our website for more information including our new protocols in the fight against COVID-19.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Fountain Hills, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, please contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Facts About Our Senior Population

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Many people make the mistake that they know everything there is about a senior and that one elderly person is much the same as another.  We are here to say nothing could be further from the truth.  As a company with a mission statement that reads to: value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals, and a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence; it our calling to provide loving homes for our residents.
As we know that older adults are living longer than any other generation in the past, it is not surprising to hear that the numbers of seniors over 65 years of age is growing.  In fact, in a 2016 study, it reports that one of every seven Americans (49.2 million) was 65 years or older, and the number of seniors 65 or older is expected to almost double to 98 million by 2060.  By 2040, the number of seniors from 2000 will double up to around 82.3 million.

Moreover, it is true that women make up a larger portion of adults 65 and older with 12.6 women to every 10 men, and the statistics grow as seniors’ age.  By the time seniors reach the age of 85, women outnumber men two to one.   However elderly women are more likely than men to suffer from functional limitations according to the Institute on Aging.  A 2009 study reports, “About 46 percent of female Medicare enrollees age 65+ had difficulties with activities of daily living (ADLs) or were in a facility, compared with 35 percent of their male counterparts.”  Also, in 2016, 82,000 seniors had reached the age of one hundred or older. 

The Albuquerque Journal reported in 2014 that the state’s number of individuals over 65 years increased by 12 percent from 2010 to 2013, compared with a national increase of 10 percent, according to estimates from the Census Bureau.  By 2030, the 65+ population will more than double to become the 4th largest percentage of individuals 65 years and older in the nation.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, a senior community located north of Albuquerque, we provide residents with compassionate assisted living and memory care.  Our beautiful community offers all of the amenities, care services and wellness programs residents need.  Please visit our website to learn more about unsurpassed senior living in Rio Ranch NM.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.     

Monday, April 27, 2020

MorningStar’s Approach to COVID-19

MorningStar Assisted Living Community - A True Home
At the MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community, we are staying vigilant in our approach to the outbreak of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) disease.   Our highest priority is to the health and safety of our residents, their families and our staff members.  

We are doing all we can to achieve this including instituting a policy that temporarily suspends non-essential visitors and vendors from entering our home.  MorningStar is also keeping up-to-date and following closely, and in many cases exceeding, guidelines set by the CDC to ensure the health and wellbeing of everyone in our home. 

Some of these actions include having all assisted living residents dine in their suites with the exception of those with an Individualized Service Plan that requires assistance with eating.  They will be served in the dining room, widely spaced from one another.  Our memory care residents will dine as usual but they too will be spread out as far apart as possible.  Other steps include suspending all non-essential visits (medical personal and end-of-life situations are the exception), eliminating all resident outings, and cancelling all events and outside entertainment. 

All of our team members have received training on infection control with an emphasis on hand sanitation including information from the CDC on COVID-19 and the uniqueness of this viral strain.  We have ordered extra disinfectants and other cleaning supplies as we as modified and increased the frequency of our cleaning practices throughout our home.   

However most importantly of all, our team knows our residents well and is on high alert for any signs of respiratory illness, and has plans in place to address this including protocols for quarantine and relocation, as needed.  We invite you to visit our website to read our full coronavirus COVID-19 update.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 61 compassionate, comfortable assisted living suites with options that include spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floor plans, some as large as 865 square feet.  We also have 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about availability and pricing. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability or to set up a tour of the finest assisted living and memory care in the Happy Valley–Clackamas area.

Visit Our Website to Learn More About MorningStar of Happy Valley

Senior Living Communities - Common Area
If you have started the search for senior living in the Happy Valley-Clackamas area we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community.  While we only opened to residents late last year, we are proud to say we have already earned a reputation as a beautiful and loving home.

We always suggest that families schedule a tour of MorningStar to get a firsthand look, but as a way to get you started; our website contains lots of information about our community as well as more general information.  Among our Family Resources, which include a Decision Guide and information on Affordability and Veterans, we also provide a comprehensive FAQs section.       

Here you will read about our unique brand of “senior loving homes” as well as learn a little something about our mission.  We explain how it is our privilege - our calling, to love all those beneath our roof, which starts by hiring team members with servants’ hearts who are drawn to the idea of working with seniors.  In addition, our service is guided by Radiance, and designed to foster a culture where kindness and authenticity are paramount. 

Within our FAQs, you will also find answers explaining what assisted living is, the type of services we offer, and how your level of care is determined (it is based on a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director).  This information allows us to set up a customized care plan that is reviewed periodically to keep up with any changing health needs. 

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless.  Each day we strive to provide seniors an environment where they can be productive and engaged.  Please visit our website to set up a tour or to request information on pricing and availability on compassionate senior living in Happy Valley, OR.          

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability or to set up a tour of the finest assisted living and memory care in the Happy Valley–Clackamas area.

Sunday, April 26, 2020

MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s Extensive Care Services

MorningStar Senior Living - Patio
For the area’s finest senior housing, Rio Rancho area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar, a true destination for successful aging.  By defining health and well-being holistically, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit.   Together our Life Enrichment programs and our Wellness Care services complement one other to ensure each resident get the best care. 

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health.  These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.    

We are also proud that our assisted living residents benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.  This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).  In addition, record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand.  It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.  
Our broad care services include 5 levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director.  Residents have 24-hour care managers; a CPR staff member on every shift and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7.  MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations. 

To address specific health needs, we offer mechanical lift assistance, oxygen administration, and diabetic management.  Furthermore, we provide transportation to medical appointments as well as pharmacy services, onsite dental and podiatry services and more.   

Please visit our website for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour. Our community includes 51 bright suites for assisted living and another 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior housing Rio Rancho has to offer.     

Monday, April 20, 2020

Falls Are the Leading Cause of Injury for Seniors

morningstar general 8
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), one out of every four Americans aged 65 and older falls every year and the majority of these falls occur at home.  In fact, falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. There are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to a fall and there are steps you can take to help decrease the likelihood of it happening.

Many elderly adults experience a general overall decline in their physical fitness resulting in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility that make them more susceptible to a fall.  Another common problem shared by many seniors is impaired vision.  This can make it more difficult to detect fall hazards such as steps, thresholds, and obstacles and changes in the ground.

Certain types of medications, especially the side effects, can cause drowsiness, dizziness or low blood pressure, which can all increase the risk of a fall.  Also keep in mind it is not just prescription drugs but over-the-counter medications can contribute to balance problems as well.  Other factors that make seniors more susceptible to falls are chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis as well as surgical procedures including hip or knee replacement.  

The NIA recommends installing night lights in the hallways and bathrooms and to have a light switch and phone within reach of the bed.  Keep walkways free of clutter and avoid using throw rugs and area carpets.  Use hand rails when going up and down the stairs, and if you have a pet, make sure they are not underfoot.  In the bathroom, install grab bars in the tub and near the toilet, and use non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our loving assisted living and memory care community makes residents’ safety and wellbeing a priority.  We provide 24-hour care, a licensed nurse on call 24/7, and provide suites equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, an emergency call system and more. Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho NM.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.     

Friday, April 17, 2020

Have Questions about MorningStar of Rio Rancho?

Senior Living Communities - Common Areas
If you are looking for senior living in Rio Rancho NM, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho. We understand for many seniors, assisted living is a new experience and that there are lots of questions in regard to how personalized care is managed and how much it will cost. 

The MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, our website offers lots of resources regarding MorningStar Senior Living including our company’s history and philosophy as well as details on how we determine the individualized care each resident will receive.

Under our website’s FAQ section, we explain that our assisted living care is based on a thorough assessment of the resident’s medical history and personal preferences.  We learn this information by sitting down with the person, their family, and our Wellness Director before they move in.   From there, a care plan is created that is approved by both the resident and their family.  To ensure our residents’ needs continue to be met, we do schedule plan evaluations as well as update plans as needed.    

Within our assisted living, we have five levels of care along with a wide range of auxiliary medical and non-medical services that are priced a la carte.  Care services determine a part of your monthly fee, but it is also based on the type of suite you choose within our choice of 51 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments.  Square footage as well as location and views are additional factors in the overall monthly fee. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho also provides 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  The monthly fee in our memory care Reflections Neighborhood is all-inclusive at a one-package price for both the suite and care. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.